Bek “The Bully” Melikuziev and Darius Fulghum delivered an electrifying contest in Las Vegas, living up to its world title eliminator billing as neither fighter was willing to yield.
Darius Fulghum experienced his first professional loss. Melikuziev`s power proved decisive, securing a knockdown in the final round. Although Fulghum fought hard, Melikuziev appeared to control much of the fight. The judges (Tim Cheatham, David Sutherland, and Steve Weisfeld) all scored the bout 114-112 for Melikuziev, who was penalized a point for holding in the seventh round.
This victory helps Melikuziev put his surprising 2021 knockout loss to Gabe Rosado further behind him, improving his record to 16-1 (10 KOs). Fulghum`s record now stands at 14-1 (12 KOs). Despite the loss, Fulghum demonstrated qualities that suggest he can succeed at this level in the future, while Melikuziev advances as the mandatory challenger for the WBA super-middleweight title.
Canelo Alvarez holds the undisputed championship, and Caleb Plant possesses the Interim title at 168 pounds. In the Virgin Hotels ring, the more experienced Melikuziev established control early, effectively landing his characteristic left hand as Fulghum adjusted to the higher level of competition.
After a patient start, Fulghum increased his aggression in the middle rounds, finding some limited opportunities. Referee Thomas Taylor`s point deduction against Melikuziev in round seven provided Fulghum and his supporters with a boost.
Throughout the fight, Melikuziev`s more precise punches generally gave him the advantage. In the final round, a powerful body-head combination sent Fulghum staggering against the ropes, resulting in a count.
This 12-round experience will be beneficial for Fulghum`s career. Meanwhile, Melikuziev is likely looking towards a potential fight with Caleb Plant as a more immediate possibility than facing Canelo.
